Coming from Wisconsin, Kansas City Chiefs rookie linebacker Leo Chenal isn’t used to the heat and humidity of training camp in St. Joe, Mo.
During his first practice last week Chenal had to leave early because of the heat. But it seems Chenal has since gotten acclimated to the warm temperatures and now he’s hoping to become a hit when the pads come on Monday.
“I’m trying to stay in the moment, but it’s definitely exciting,” Chenal said. “I pride myself on the violence and physicality part. I love that part of the game, that’s football to me.”
Last year for the Badgers, the 6-foot-3, 250-pound Chenal had 115 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks and two forced fumbles in 11 games. But with offenses relying on the passing game more and more, Chenal said he has to be a complete player and contribute in pass coverage when needed.
“With more of a passing league now, I have to continue to progress in that area,” he said. “So I’ve got to continue to learn and put myself in uncomfortable situations. That’s how you become a better football player.”
Chenal seems to be picking things up quickly in that regard. During his second practice, Chenal intercepted Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
“I was just doing my job putting myself in the right spot and doing what the coaches told me to do,” Chenal said. “Those plays are going to come if we’re assignment sound. So it’s just a credit to the defense and us learning what we’re supposed to be doing.”
Chenal has been working at both Mike and Sam linebacker spots and though it’s early, would likely begin the season as a backup and contribute on special teams. But he said it’s important to make the most of each opportunity and he plans on doing that.
Just like when he intercepted Mahomes.
“It is kind of cool to go against him, the top of the top,” Chenal said. “And being able to compete against that, iron sharpens iron. But in reality (for me) it’s like diamond sharpens copper with that guy out there.”
DUNLAP TO ARRIVE WEDNESDAY
Veteran defensive end Carlos Dunlap is expected to join the Chiefs on Wednesday. Dunlap will be part of the rotation along with Frank Clark and George Karlaftis.
“It’s a nice addition,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He’s been doing this a while and he can still roll.”
